When facing a struggle, we may wonder if God is aware of all that is happening. We may question why He doesn't answer when I cry out to Him.
IS GOD REALLY AWARE OF WHAT IS HAPPENING?
God’s ASTONISHING Love and Care When We are Weary
One thing I love about the Scripture is how it speaks to me. Whatever I need, I find comfort, peace, or direction. God’s divine love and care shine out of the pages, especially when I feel discouraged or less than adequate. The Scripture restores and reaffirms God’s gentleness and concern even when frail, weary, or doubting my ability. Look at the life of Elijah in the book of 1 Kings 17-19.
Part 2 Do You Excuse Disobedience?
Saul was anointed and appointed by God the King of Israel. His humility soon turned to pride and excuses for not obeying God’s commands. The proof of a good King was his obedience to God’s command and rejection of idol worship. The same proof applies to us today. Obedience to God is the key to our relationship and approval from God. Overcoming excuses and pride takes work on our part but becomes easier the more we dwell in the Word, obey it, and grieve over sin.
DO YOU EXCUSE DISOBEDIENCE? King Saul Part 1
Excuses make me look better than I am, or cover up my sin and avoid the consequences of my actions. At times, it's easier to blame someone else for my lack of responsibility. "It's his fault I'm like I am." The story of Saul helps us see the problem of making excuses, a cover for self-pride. The opposite of making excuses is obeying God. As we grow in knowing God's Word and doing what He says, we can overcome our prideful excuses. Self-driven pride is something God hates. But, God loves the obedient.
Kicking Anger in the Teeth! (The Secret of Mastering Anger)
In our nation, anger is an increasing, dominant emotion. A war of hate is burgeoning at the national level, threading through the corridors of life in states, cities, and homes. When anger comes to my house, how do I close the door on it?
What Does “A Suitable Helper” Mean?
Women and men have twelve pairs of ribs, even though God took one from Adam to form Eve. God didn’t need a rib to create but chose to make her a part of him. God designed a suitable helper so Adam wouldn't be alone. This uneventful word, “suitable” doesn’t possess a lot of class in itself, but when you look at the meaning God gave the woman, that changes everything!
OUR GREAT DELIVERER, Psalm 18:2
Often in reading scripture, it’s easy to quickly gloss over words and fail to see the deeper meaning. In Psalm 18:2, our thoughts can anchor into the protection and deliverance God provides as a rock, fortress, deliverer, refuge, shield, horn, and stronghold. Consider the deeper meanings of these symbolic words describing our Deliverer.
PLANTING SEEDS FOR SUCCESS
“The knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of God has been given to you, but to others I speak in parables, so that, “‘though seeing, they may not see; though hearing, they may not understand.’ Luke 8:10, 11
THE BENEFITS GOD GIVES Psalm 103:1-5
Praise the Lord, my soul, and forget not all his benefits— Psalm 103:2
THE ANGELS OF GOD MET HIM
The Secret Meaning of Mahanaim
Jacob, part of the triangle of Israel’s covenant patriarchs, was heading home with his family, possessions, and livestock after living with his father-in-law for many years. In obedience to return to the Land of Promise he now faces a crisis, fearing his incensed brother. How did the angels help Jacob? And what was the meaning of the place, Mahanaim?